Loose end to be tied up in murder trial

Thu, 12 Aug 2010

Douglas Courthouse

The opening of the defence of a man on trial for murder has been delayed.

The defence for Simon Paul Leece had been expected to open this afternoon.

However, Deemster Birkett - who is overseeing the trial - told the jury that there was a loose end in the prosecution's case that needed to be sorted out first.

This morning the twelve jurors went on a site visit for the second time.

They visited the four properties where fires were allegedly started, as well as other locations crucial to the case.

The prosecution will conclude its case tomorrow morning.